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Cherry Bars for a Crowd

Quick, easy, and delicious cherry bars with a buttery crust and fruity filling, perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar for additional sweetness
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract adds a secret layer of flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice adds a little zing
For the filling
  • 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
  4. Gradually add the flour, salt, and lemon juice, mixing until just combined.
  5. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan, and spread three-quarters of the dough evenly on the bottom, pressing it down.
Assembly
  1. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the pressed dough, spreading it out evenly.
  2. Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
Baking
  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden-brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.
  2. Allow to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  3. Cut into squares once completely cool.

Notes

These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for extra decadence. You can also substitute the cherry filling with blueberry or peach.